Becoming a Firefighter / Medic

Firefighters in a GroupIf you want to become a Firefighter/Medic, it is important to understand what a career in public safety is all about. This is usually a lifelong job that gives honor, pride, and sense of family. It requires a high level of dedication to make a difference in peoples' lives.

When first employed, the recruit will complete a 22 to 24-week recruit academy focused on providing training in both fire suppression and emergency medical services. This training requires intensive study and practical exercises, rigorous physical training and a desire to be successful. Within 48 months of completing the recruit academy, firefighters without advanced life support (ALS) certification must obtain promotion to Firefighter/Medic.

Selection Process

  1. Application
  2. Personal History Questionnaire
  3. Questionnaire Review
  4. Written Test
  5. Panel Interviews
  6. Chief’s Interviews
  7. Offer of Employment
  8. Hired for the Academy
  9. Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

Interested candidates must submit a Spotsylvania County online application. Applications are only accepted online. To apply, visit our jobs section. Please provide an email address for notifications and status updates. 

Please note the email you provide on your application will be the primary means in which you are contacted and notified throughout the hiring process. Call Spotsylvania County Human Resources at 540-507-7290 if you need assistance completing your online application.

Minimum Requirements for Candidates to Apply

  • Minimum of 18 years of age by the date the application process closes. There is no maximum age limit. However, all candidates must be able to successfully pass the Department's Candidate Physical Ability Test.
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • Possession of or eligibility to obtain a valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License. Please note: A candidate's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record can have no violation for:
    • Driving Under the Influence (DUI)/Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in the past 3 years (36 months)
    • Reckless driving in the past 3 years (36 months)
    • Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license
    • A hit and run at any time
    • Negligent homicide at any time
    • Aggravated assault with a motor vehicle at any time
    • Use of a motor vehicle while committing a felony at any time
    • More than two moving violations within the past 3 years (36 months)
    • Any two combinations of moving violations and accidents in the past 3 years (36 months)